The same way
“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:11
A lot of people argue about if Jesus will come back to the earth someday. Some say He has already come. Others believe we will only see Him when we die. Still, there are those who think Jesus will only come when He comes to set up His Kingdom in the millennial reign. Then of course there are the ones who have the idea that you just never know what is going to happen.
The truth is, we do know because God has revealed it in His Word. He has given us an entire manual to guide our lives and prepare us for the future. He wants us to understand His plans and what to expect. First, we know that God is good and does good things. Galatians 5 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, giving us a clear picture of His character. We also know that God is love, and He demonstrated that love by sending His only Son to pay the price for sin. Jesus rose from the dead, spent 40 days with His disciples, and then ascended into heaven before their very eyes.
All of these events were prophesied beforehand, yet many did not believe because they didn’t know or understand what God had spoken. God was never trying to hide His plan, and He doesn’t want us to be in the dark about what He is doing now or what is to come.
Before Jesus ascended, His disciples asked if it was time for Israel to be restored. But after receiving the Holy Spirit, there is no account of them asking this question again. Why? Because the Spirit of God gave them wisdom and revelation. They understood their mission and how to fulfill it.
The same is true for us today. As we yield to the Holy Spirit and spend time in God’s Word and presence, we will gain understanding of His plans for our lives. We will also receive revelation about His return. Just as Jesus prepared His disciples, He is preparing us now. But it is up to each of us to press into Him, seek His wisdom, and allow the Spirit to guide our steps.
Below are some ways that you can press into Him:
- Spend time in God’s Word daily. Start by reading Acts 1:6-11 and other passages about Christ’s return (Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).
- Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding. Pray for revelation about God’s plans for your life and the world.
- Live with expectation. Bring your life into agreement with God’s purpose, focusing on His eternal plans rather than temporary circumstances.
- Stay connected to a faith-filled community. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and strengthen your walk with Christ.
- Be ready to share the hope of Christ’s return. Let your life be a testimony of faith, love, and readiness for His coming.
Today, be encouraged: Jesus will return the same way He left. Fill your heart and life with His Word, listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit, and walk in confidence, knowing that His plans are sure and His promises never fail.
Today’s scripture reading: Acts 1:6-11
6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”
7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.
8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Jesus Ascends to Heaven
9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel,
11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
The Daily Dose 